What is Psyllium Husk?

This article was written with help from AI and edited by Thrive Market’s talented team of human writers.

In the nutrition world, psyllium husk has become popular as a dietary fiber supplement. Let’s explore the potential benefits, how it works in the body, and the best ways to incorporate it into your daily routine. 

What Is Psyllium Husk?

Psyllium husk is a natural dietary fiber derived from the seeds of Plantago ovata, a plant native to India and other parts of Asia. It’s widely recognized for its fiber, making it a popular ingredient in dietary supplements, laxatives, and even food products.

Nutritional Value of Psyllium Husk

Psyllium husk is composed primarily of soluble fiber, which forms a gel-like consistency when mixed with water. It contains minimal calories and is gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets. Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown in a 1 tablespoon serving of Organic India Organic Psyllium Husk.

• Calories: 20
• Total Carbohydrates: 4g
• Dietary Fiber (Total): 4g 
• Soluble Fiber: 3g
• Insoluble Fiber: 1g

Potential Health Benefits of Psyllium Husk

• Relieve constipation and diarrhea. All soluble fibers help bulk and bind stools making them easier to pass and research shows psyllium husk works well without concern of side effects. Physillium husk also helps bind loose stools if you’re experiencing diarrhea. 
• Blood sugar management. Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD explains that psyllium husk “slows down the rate of glucose in the bloodstream, which if used on a regular basis can help control blood sugars,” explains Zumpano. 
• Lowering cholesterol. Soluble fibers, such as those in psyllium husk, guar gum, flax seed, and oat bran, can help lower cholesterol, particularly LDL cholesterol levels. 

How to Use Psyllium Husk in Cooking and Baking

As a supplement, psyllium husk is available in powder, capsule, and granule form, but can also be used in cooking and baking.

• Smoothies & Juices: A teaspoon of psyllium husk can be blended into drinks for added fiber.
• Baking: It is used in gluten-free recipes as a binding agent in bread, muffins, and pancakes.
• Thickening Agent: Can be used to thicken soups, sauces, and gravies.

Best Psyllium Husk Products on Thrive Market

Stock up on the trusted supplements you need. 

Organic India Whole Husk Psyllium

This supplement is Certified Organic and free from additives, fillers, and artificial ingredients. Thrive Market member Lisa says “this is hands down the best psyllium husk I’ve tried! It’s organic, pure, and works wonders for my digestion. I add it to my morning smoothie, and it keeps me feeling great all day!”

Yerba Prima Psyllium Husks Powder

This finely ground psyllium powder is easy to use—just mix with water or your favorite beverage for a simple, effective fiber supplement. Member Jason T. says “I love how fine and easy this psyllium powder is easy to mix. I take it every morning, and it helps me feel lighter and more energized.”

Yerba Prima Psyllium Husks, Whole

Meet your daily fiber goals with a supplement you can add to smoothies, yogurt, or water. Member Emily R. says “this has been a game-changer for my digestion! I love that it’s a whole psyllium husk with no additives. Super effective and easy to use!”

Yerba Prima Psyllium Husk Capsules

For on-the-go fiber support, these capsules help promote regularity without the need to mix powders. Member Mark D. shares “I take these every morning, and they help keep my digestion regular. Highly recommend!”